MiSPP Copyright Policy

MiSPP Copyright Policy

MiSPP is committed to respecting the rights of copyright holders and complying with United States Copyright Act of 1976 (Title 17, United States Code), Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA), and other related acts. Members of the MiSPP community are expected to adhere to the laws set forth in these acts in regards to the proper use of copyrighted materials.

Copyright Infringement

Copyright infringement, including peer-to-peer file sharing, violates the US Copyright Act and MiSPP policy. MiSPP community members who violate copyright law may be subject to disciplinary action through the school as well as federal civil and criminal penalties. Penalties may still apply even when an individual was not aware that their actions constituted copyright infringement.

Academic Consequences

Violation of copyright law is an academic offense. Allegations of academic or non-academic misconduct will be referred to the Program Director or the Vice President as appropriate for review, investigation, and adjudication.

During the course of investigation a student may be suspended and not permitted to attend classes or be on MiSPP premises if the behavior of the student is of concern to the health and safety of others or disruptive to the educational environment. Upon receipt of an allegation of misconduct, the Program Director or Vice President will review, investigate and adjudicate the matter within thirty (30) days. See the current Academic Catalog for a list of sanctions for academic offenses.

Federal Civil and Criminal Penalties

“Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either actual damages or “statutory” damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per work infringed. For “willful” infringement, a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A court can, in its discretion, also assess costs and attorneys’ fees. For details, see Title 17, United States Code, Sections 504, 505.

Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense.”[1]